An Unlikely Mother

by Danica Favorite

As John nodded, George let out a long sigh. “I wish I could do more, but the truth is, our family is flat broke. I don’t know what happened to our fortune, but we’re trying to find out, and that’s what I’m trying to make right. Please believe me when I say that I had no idea what was happening, and I’m so sorry for all the pain the mine has caused.”

  “Thank you,” Herman said. “And at least now I know why Dougherty was trying to get me to tap into someone else’s claim. The Pudgy Boy is pretty close to being played out, and it’s no secret among us miners that if you don’t find a new vein soon, you might as well close things up.”

  So there was no hope. Every option had been exhausted. Except stealing from someone else’s mine, which was why Dougherty had left Herman to die.

  “Why would Dougherty try to dissuade me from buying the mine?” John asked. “Wouldn’t putting it into my lap and getting money for the Bellinghams be the solution?”

  Herman shrugged. “It would if they’d had a chance to seed the mine. You’re a smart man. If they simply took silver from another mine, you’d figure it out pretty quick, since you’ve got your fingers in just about every pot. But if they had silver from a vein in another claim that hadn’t yet been developed...”

  The wheels started turning in George’s head. It would definitely be a large-scale fraud. “Dougherty’s not smart enough to pull this off alone. He’s too drunk most of the time. Besides, what does he care if I own the mine or if John does?”

  “He doesn’t,” Herman said. “But there’s someone above him putting the screws in him, that’s for sure. He kept nervously mentioning the boss.”

  “And the boss is?” Will asked.

  Herman shrugged. “I figured it was Bellingham, since he owns the mine.” Then Herman looked at him. “But clearly not, since you’re trying to figure it out instead of just having me killed.”

  Will turned to George. “Who in your family has all the information on the mine?”

  “I’ve told you everything I know.” George sighed. “I suppose Arthur, my brother-in-law, but he’s family. He wouldn’t put Julia and the children at risk. Robert Cooper has been our closest advisor, but I can’t see him wanting to hurt our family. I mean, if this got out, it would ruin us more than we already are.”

  “Unless the sale made you even more wealthy,” John said, letting out a sigh. “I thought the price they gave me was a bit steep.”

  “They?” Will looked at John expectantly.

  “I’d been negotiating with Robert Cooper, but recently Arthur Eldridge has also been corresponding with me, since I asked to speak with a family member. I found it odd that neither volunteered George. When I asked about him, they both said he was too busy with his studies at Harvard to deal with family business. Honestly, it wasn’t until I started digging deeper into the mine business that they started getting cold feet about selling. I think they knew that I’d discover their wrongdoing and expose it.”

  Though John had already told George all of this, and graciously allowed George to read the letters and telegrams, it still rankled to hear how easily they’d dismissed him.

  Worse, they hadn’t bothered to consult with George at all. He had a friend back at Harvard keeping his secret and passing on all correspondence. So far there had been nothing to indicate the situation with the mine or the dire condition of the family’s finances. In answer to George’s inquiries, they’d both said it was merely rumor and not to worry.

  “Do you happen to have any claim maps we can look at, John?” Will asked. “I’d like to have Herman mark up the areas where he was setting charges, and where the claims are that they were encroaching on.”

  “Of course,” John said. “I like to know what’s what in our area. Pudgy Boy isn’t the first mine to try taking silver from someone else’s claim, so I pay close attention to who owns what and where.”

  When John left to get the maps, George turned to Herman. “I can’t tell you how much I appreciate what you’ve done to help. I know nothing can bring your leg back, but I will do what I can to make things right.”

  Herman shook his head. “I know. I’m just sorry you’re going to lose it all. I’d be honored to work for a man like you.”

  John returned with the maps, and they cleared the dishes to spread them out on the table. When Herman pointed out the areas where Dougherty had had him working, George’s heart sank. It was the area Dougherty had been warning people was too dangerous to work. And now George had to wonder just who the danger would be to—the workers or Dougherty’s secrets?

  “I can take you there in the morning,” Herman said, looking at the notations on the map. “The area where I blasted is hard to get to, and you’ll need some ropes. But I can show you.”

  “No you won’t,” Will said. “That leg of yours needs attention. I’ll see to it that you get to the hospital. The others can plan their excursion to the mine.”

  Herman shook his head. “We all know he can’t pay. I’ve already accepted that I’m a goner. Let me do something good with the life left in me. Henri was my friend. I’ve no doubt that he probably went after Dougherty, trying to get justice for me, and Dougherty likely killed him. But if I can find evidence to show that Dougherty was up to something, at least I’ll know my friend didn’t die in vain. And that boy of his can know his father was a hero.”

  George reached into his pocket for the one thing of value he had left. He’d always hoped it would never come to this, but when he’d returned for his father’s funeral, his sister had tearfully pressed their father’s signet ring into his hand, telling him that their father would have wanted him to have it. She’d also cautioned him not to tell Arthur she’d given it to him. At the time, he’d thought it was because Arthur had wanted it for himself. But maybe there was a deeper reason.

  Letting out a deep breath, George set the ring on the table. “I can pay. It’s all I have left, but it’s only right that I do this.”

  John placed his hand over George’s.

  “No, son. I’ll pay. That ring...it meant so much to your father. And to me.”

  Putting his other hand on the table, John revealed a similar signet ring. “When we struck gold, we each gave ourselves, and our wives, a nugget to do with as we pleased. Elias and I had ours made into rings as symbols of the dynasty we’d create together. We promised to be there for each other always, and I intend to keep that promise to my friend, through his son.”

  With tears in his eyes, John looked at Herman. “I make a similar promise to you. Whatever it takes to make you well, I commit myself to doing. I promise to help you and anyone else wronged by this situation.”

  Then John let out a long sigh. “And, for the sake of my own mines and workers, I intend to make sure my people are similarly cared for. Until all of this, it never occurred to me that I’d lost sight of all Elias and I held dear. People thought him a fool for being too generous, but now I wonder if we all haven’t been generous enough.”

  Crazy Eddie slapped his hand on the table again. “You’re the finest gents I ever did meet. I’ll take Herman’s place. I know these mountains like the back of my hand. I can get you to the spot he’s talking about.”

  “Thank you,” George said. “I can never repay the debt we owe you for your assistance.”

  Crazy Eddie grinned. “You and that young lady of yours just give that little boy a good home and lots of brothers and sisters. That’ll be payment enough.”

  As all the other men grinned and chuckled, George tried to smile, although he couldn’t muster up the energy. He’d laid his heart on the line, but Flora seemed colder than ever to him. He knew she needed time and space, but he wasn’t sure if it would eventually bring them closer or widen the gulf between them.

  Chapter Sixteen

  The next morning, Flora woke earlier than usual, hoping to catch the men before they left. The
sun wasn’t yet up, but Flora ran into George in the kitchen just as he was packing up to leave.

  “You should let us come,” Flora said, taking in every bit of his handsome features. She wished she could hug him tight and tell him to stay safe, but things were still too jumbled. Why get both of their hopes up?

  “It’s not safe,” he said, looking at her with the same longing she felt in her heart.

  “But if you find Pierre’s father...”

  “He’s probably dead,” George said solemnly. “We need to face it. The people who knew him all agree he would have never left his son willingly. We know he probably went after Dougherty, a man who tried to kill Herman rather than having his secrets be known.”

  Though Flora knew George was likely right, it still hurt to hear the words. “But Pierre...”

  She willed herself not to cry at the thought of telling the little boy his father wasn’t coming back. But that wasn’t the only image that came to mind.

  “If this man is willing to kill, what about your safety? What about my father’s?”

  “Will is bringing another deputy. Owen Hamilton helped investigate the explosion at the mine, and he’s familiar with the area, as well. Between them and Crazy Eddie, we should be fine.”

  Despite her will, tears filled her eyes. “George...”

  He shook his head. “Let’s not do this now. You’re afraid I’m going to die, and I’m telling you that I’m not. We’ll be back before nightfall. Take care of Pierre. Go visit Herman in the hospital. Call on Rose. Will said that the ladies were asking about you.”

  All normal things. That hardly seemed right in light of the seriousness of the situation.

  But how could Flora refuse him? She’d said she wanted to do her part. This was what they wanted her to do.

  “All right,” Flora said.

  “Good.”

  For a moment, Flora thought that George was going to bend down and kiss her or at least hug her. But he shook his head and walked away.

  After they left, Flora did her best to stay busy around the house, but her mother remained abed, pleading a headache, and Agnes was so irritated with her over everything, that it seemed pointless. Since it was still too early to politely call on anyone, Flora gathered Pierre and made her way to the hospital to visit Herman.

  When they arrived at the hospital, they were directed to Herman’s room. However, Herman was asleep.

  “Oh! A visitor.” The nurse smiled at her. “It will greatly help his recovery. You are most fortunate that he got medical attention when he did. The doctor says we caught the infection just in time.”

  “I’m so glad.” Flora turned to Pierre and told him that the nurse said Herman was going to be all right.

  Pierre smiled. Though the little boy was afraid of the other man, Herman had been his father’s friend, and Pierre seemed concerned about the man.

  “You might come back later. I expect he’ll be sleeping for quite some time, and what he really needs right now is rest.” The nurse looked apologetic, but given that Pierre was already squirming on Flora’s lap, it sounded like a good idea.

  “Thank you. I realize this is unusual, but is there any way you could have someone send a message to my home when Herman wakes up?”

  “Of course, Miss Montgomery.”

  Flora stared at the woman. “You know who I am?”

  “Oh, yes,” the nurse said. “Everyone knows who you are, and the doctor made it quite clear that Mr. Schmidt is to get the finest care. Please don’t worry yourself on his account.”

  Then the nurse looked at Herman with a soft smile on her face. “He’s been asleep the whole time I’ve been here, but there’s something kind about him in his face. I’ve always said that people with kindness in their faces are the best sort of people.”

  Unexpectedly, she turned her attention to Flora, confusion written on her face. “And I don’t know why, because I’ve never had this feeling before, but I feel compelled to say that you have that same kindness on your face. Which is odd, because I’ve heard...”

  The nurse shook her head. “I apologize. I’m speaking out of turn. I have no idea what came over me just now.”

  “No, please,” Flora said. “It’s all right. I wish to hear what you have to say.”

  “I suppose it’s no secret that you aren’t known for your kindness,” the nurse said. “I mean no insult.”

  The woman looked as though she honestly feared Flora would say something to get her in trouble.

  “Of course you don’t,” Flora said. “And you’re right. I haven’t been known for my kindness. But I hope that perception will change in time.”

  “With a face like yours, I can’t imagine it not. It’s so strange. I thought I caught a glimpse of you in the mercantile a few months back, and I can’t say that I saw this in you. Something must have happened to change you greatly.”

  Something, indeed. “Thank you,” Flora told the nurse. “What is your name? I should have asked sooner and I haven’t. I apologize.”

  “Ida,” she said, smiling. “And it’s all right. You seem to have a lot on your mind.”

  “I do.” Flora took a deep breath. “Speaking of things on my mind, I know that it’s probably against the rules, but my friend Ellen Fitzgerald was brought in several days ago, and I’ve had no word of her condition. Is there anything you can tell me that wouldn’t get you in trouble?”

  Recognition dawned on the other woman’s face. “Of course! Why didn’t I realize it now? She’s been asking for a Flora, but her family says she’s being foolish. She’s just down the hall. I’m sure it would be all right for you to have a short visit. I’ve just come from there.”

  Flora’s heart lightened at the news. If Ellen was asking for her, that had to mean she was awake.

  When Flora entered Ellen’s room, Ellen turned her head to look at her. “Flora!”

  Her voice was weak, but she still sounded like Ellen.

  Flora dashed to her friend’s bedside. “I’m so glad you’re all right. No one would say.”

  Ellen gave a weak smile. “Mother got sick of all the vultures visiting the house, looking for gossip. I should have insisted she send word, but every time I told her we were friends, she said I must’ve hit my head harder than people thought.”

  “I’m sorry I haven’t been a better friend to you,” Flora said. “You were a good friend to me. I thought I’d never have the chance to tell you how grateful I am for you.”

  “Nonsense. We’ve only barely gotten to know each other. And when I’m well enough, I fully expect you to keep your promise to teach me how to make a hat the way you do.”

  “Of course.” The thought of making hats sobered Flora. They’d planned on making hats with Diana. “But...”

  “I know about Diana,” Ellen said quietly.

  Tears filled Flora’s eyes. It seemed like all she did these days was cry, with all the tragedy surrounding them. “I just wanted to say, I’m so sorry. It should have been me. I shouldn’t have traded places with you.”

  Ellen let out a long sigh. “I talked you into switching. This isn’t your fault. You don’t think I haven’t lain here, wondering why Diana died and I lived? It’s not our place to sort out who gets to live and who gets to die. Or even to ask why.”

  Then she smiled at Flora, looking so peaceful that Flora wished she knew Ellen’s secret. “What I have learned is that God spared me for a purpose. Just as He spared you. The question is, what do we do with the gift of life we’ve been given? I believe you’re already working out God’s purpose, so don’t give up on it, no matter how difficult it seems.”

  With what looked to be a painful motion, Ellen gestured at Pierre. “I see you still have this fine young man with you.”

  She closed her eyes briefly, then looked back up at Flora. �
�I can’t stop thinking about how I told you to ignore your feelings for George. I was wrong. If I could change one thing about my past, I would have fought to stay in Boston, fought for the man I loved. If you love George, don’t let anyone tell you not to.”

  Ellen took a deep breath and closed her eyes again. Before Flora could think of what to tell her friend, a woman entered the room.

  “Ellen!”

  Ellen gave a sigh and opened her eyes. “I’m fine, Mother. Flora was just stopping in to see how I was. Now will you believe me that we’re friends?”

  “Hello, Mrs. Fitzgerald. It’s good to meet you,” Flora said with a smile. Then she gestured at Pierre. “And this is Pierre.”

  “I heard you were caring for a child whose father is missing. I wish you the best.” The woman patted her hat nervously, like she was worried about her appearance.

  “Thank you. And may I say that your hat is quite lovely. Although I’ve promised Ellen lessons in how I decorate hats, I think she could learn a great deal from you. Perhaps we could all do it together once Ellen returns home?”

  Mrs. Fitzgerald’s eyes widened. “It would be a pleasure.”

  “Wonderful.” Flora smiled at them both. “I know Ellen needs her rest, and I have likely overstayed my welcome. Promise you’ll keep me updated on Ellen’s condition. I have another friend here that I’ve been visiting, and I would love to stop in and say hello to Ellen whenever I’m here.”

  “Oh, please do,” Ellen said. “I’m dying of boredom.”

  “I could bring you some books,” Flora said brightly, feeling like she was finally gaining ground in establishing new friendships since she lost everything.

  “Absolutely not.” Mrs. Fitzgerald glared at Ellen. “I know she’s longing to read again, but the doctor says the strain is too much for her until she recovers.”

  “But I miss my books,” Ellen said, sounding less chipper than she had the entire time Flora had been there.

  “Then it’s settled.” Flora leaned forward and patted her friend’s hand. “I will come and read to you.”